Rumors are swirling in the tech world that NVIDIA is halting the supply of VRAM to its add-in-board partners, forcing companies like ASUS, MSI, and Gigabyte to source GDDR6 and GDDR7 memory independently from suppliers such as SK Hynix and Samsung. This change comes after NVIDIA previously bundled VRAM with GPU dies to simplify manufacturing for partners. The shift is reportedly driven by skyrocketing demand for DDR5 in AI data centers, where NVIDIA prioritizes its lucrative enterprise products over consumer gaming GPUs. As a result, the consumer market could face ripple effects from this reallocation of resources.
The implications for PC builders and gamers are concerning, as AIB partners now bear the burden of procuring VRAM amid potential shortages. Larger manufacturers might secure better deals, but smaller ones could struggle with higher costs, leading to inconsistent pricing across the board. Current oversupply of GPUs at retailers like Micro Center may give way to future price hikes, making high-end PC gaming less accessible compared to consoles or sticking with older hardware. NVIDIA’s strategy appears to deflect blame for any increases by offloading responsibility to partners.
This development adds fuel to the ongoing criticism of NVIDIA’s business practices, portraying the company as favoring AI profits over its gaming roots. By creating a more fragmented market for VRAM, NVIDIA risks alienating its core consumer base while chasing higher margins in enterprise sectors. If confirmed, this could signal a broader trend where AI demands overshadow consumer needs, reshaping the landscape of PC hardware availability and affordability.
While the rumor remains unverified, with no official responses from industry contacts, it underscores growing tensions in the tech ecosystem. Updates are anticipated if the story gains traction, but for now, it serves as a cautionary tale for enthusiasts monitoring NVIDIA’s moves. As the AI boom continues, gamers might need to brace for a “wild west” scenario in component pricing and supply chains.
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